In a Nutshell

The Fine Print

Promotional value expires 120 days after purchase. Amount paid never expires.Appointment required. Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as gift. Limit 1 per visit. Must use promotional value in 1 visit. Valid only for option purchased. All goods or services must be used by the same person. 24 hour cancellation notice. New clients only.Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services.

Chameleon Colors

The Deal

$39 for one 75-minute European facial with hand massage and optional skin-polishing dermafile treatment ($90 value)

The European Facial: Concentrated Cleansing

Learn what to expect from a classic facial treatment with Groupon’s introduction to the european facial.

If you’re wondering what exactly is so “European” about the european facial, consider that continent’s wealth of diversity: natives of nearly 50 independent countries speak hundreds of languages and dialects. The european facial shares the inclusive spirit of its namesake, adapting to address skin conditions that range from acne and age spots to redness and dry skin. Its basic steps include cleansing, toning, exfoliation, extractions, and a hydrating treatment that may take the form of either a mask or lotion. Katie O’Reilly, the associate editor of DaySpa magazine, believes in the benefits of these extra steps. After the cleansing and toning, she says, “Your skin is just going to be healthier and more protected than it was beforehand. And tightening anybody’s pores helps their skin no matter what their issues are.”

Of all the steps in a european facial, exfoliation and extraction prove the most crucial—and the most variable. “Find out what kind of exfoliants work best for your skin,” O’Reilly advises, noting that some skin types respond best to glycolic-acid peels and others take more readily to a milder fruit-enzyme scrub. She likens extractions—the act of removing blackheads and small pimples—to “going to the dentist for your face,” though some aestheticians consider this step too invasive and opt against it. It may come in one of many forms, but a monthly or seasonal facial always presents a valuable opportunity to confer with an expert about your skin’s overall health.